Regular heating oil tank inspections can prevent costly cleanups
Nunavut Department of Environment reminds homeowners to check their tanks
Nunavut’s Department of Environment is reminding people to regularly check their heating oil tanks. (Photo by Emma Tranter)
Have you checked your heating oil tank lately? According to Nunavut’s Department of Environment, you probably should.
The department is reminding homeowners and property managers to conduct regular inspections of their tanks. Consistent inspection and proper maintenance can prevent significant oil spill cleanup costs, according to a public service announcement issued on Monday, May 6.
If left unchecked, water can accumulate in the “drip leg” of the tank, which is a section of pipe that runs at right angles to the main fuel line and protrudes below the bottom of the oil tank. That water will freeze, potentially causing a crack in the pipe. Now that the weather is getting warmer, accumulated water will thaw and fuel may escape through any cracks, causing a spill.
Tanks that show signs of rust or are over 10 years old should be replaced, and an early service should be conducted by a qualified technician who can empty the drip leg, the announcement stated.
More information on how to properly inspect a heating oil tank and identify potential risks of an oil spill can be found here.
Residents can also contact the environmental protection officer or local conservation officer to arrange for a free fuel tank inspection.
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